What does it truly take to pioneer innovation at the cutting edge of South African biotech? We gain unique insight into this question by speaking with the women behind Next Biosciences, a leading company that seamlessly combines medicine, science, and technology to invest in groundbreaking health technologies.
“When I first looked at the company, I was truly in awe of how many women were part of the team. I was really inspired that such a successful biotech company in South Africa could be so highly female-led AND with a female CEO at the helm.” - Lisa, Head of Quality
For many of the women at Next Biosciences, female role models in science were scarce growing up. Little did they know, as they embarked on their journeys, that they would become a vital part of an emerging movement, inspiring the next generation entering the field. In many instances lack of visible female scientists meant their path began with a personal revelation in school: an emerging aptitude for science, biology, or chemistry that sparked their curiosity and propelled them to investigate career possibilities in the field.
Tertiary education, typically a Bachelor of Science, provides the essential foundation needed to enter what many eagerly anticipate: the real-life application, where theory meets practice, empowering them to put knowledge into action and begin making a meaningful impact in their chosen scientific field.
Among the remarkable women at Next Biosciences featured in the “Her Story” series, each joined the company at a different stage in her career, yet all discovered a haven that actively fosters learning, innovation, and the empowerment of its people.
Here, their careers in science have flourished, offering a unique environment where professional development and personal growth have progressed hand-in-hand. They've discovered that their initial goals when entering the business have expanded dramatically. What they set out to achieve has, surprisingly, exposed them to a much broader world within Next Biosciences. A flat organisational structure that provides clear access to and visibility of all moving parts and people within this biotech business. An ecosystem rich with learning and inspiration, enabling them to understand the meaningful role they play in the bigger picture.
"Unlike larger companies where you're confined to your own team, at Next Biosciences the corporate veil lifted. I started to see how every part of the business connected. It was a revelation to realise that, no matter how big or small the contribution may be, we are all purposefully working towards the same vision.- Carmin, Snr Lab Scientist
The company presents an array of roles, from hands-on lab work to more business-led roles in quality control and client relations, enabling aspiring professionals to discover paths that perfectly align with their individual strengths and preferences. Their current roles often began with a leap of faith, a willingness to dream big and fill shoes they never imagined fitting. Many have blossomed, surprising themselves with their own capabilities. This is largely due to the unique culture at Next Biosciences, where potential is recognised and nurtured, allowing individuals to build and advance their careers within a supportive framework. Mentorship is woven into the daily fabric of the company, happening organically at all levels. Driven by a selfless pursuit of excellence, many mentors profoundly impact colleagues' journeys, often unaware of their significant influence.
“I’m inspired every day by the talented colleagues who walk alongside me at every step - always ready to support, share advice, and offer new perspectives. I’m inspired by our teamwork and research that comes to life as products that truly make a difference for patients. Knowing that what we do together has a real, positive impact is what motivates me most.” - Lucia, Snr Lab Scientist
This isn't just about the practice of science, but about individual contributions to each patient, healthcare professional and customer's story that they impact in the daily work they deliver. The reality of working in biotech is tough and unfiltered. It demands being at your best every day, fueled by genuine passion but also requiring thick skin and relentless determination. Constant learning and staying deeply engaged is a non-negotiable - there’s no room for complacency in a field that moves fast and expects excellence at every turn. The secret to success lies in cultivating resilience, maintaining unwavering curiosity, and finding purpose in the impact of the work. These ladies, deeply fulfilled and inspired in the present, find joy in their everyday responsibilities. For them, the journey itself is the reward, an embrace of the present, trusting that what lies ahead may be brighter than they can imagine.
"Never say no to an opportunity, and always seek to create your own. If you're prepared to put in the hard work, you will benefit. Even if recognition isn't immediate, don't ask 'what's in it for me?' Instead, see every challenge as a chance to grow. That commitment to learning, though not always instantly reflected, will undoubtedly pay off in the long run." - Gloudi, Head of Labs
Next Biosciences offers a diverse and dynamic environment for aspiring scientists, covering areas from genetic testing and stem cell banking to biologics for eye, wound, and dental care, with opportunities to work across cutting-edge fields like regenerative medicine and diagnostics. Supported by a culture of innovation and continuous learning, Next Biosciences is an ideal place to welcome the next wave of those eager to explore and grow in the field of biosciences, embodied in the inspiring humans behind the business.
"At Next Biosciences, daily learning is a given. I've seized countless opportunities to climb the ladder, and the recognition and value placed on my hard work have been truly amazing, validating every effort." - Sam, Lab Manager
Drawing from the collective wisdom of the women at Next Biosciences, you'll discover that the most profound journey is one of self-discovery. It's about learning to advocate for yourself and realising that progression is often closer than you think, fueled by both self-belief and the unwavering support of those around you. The growth experienced goes beyond scientific skills and practice, encompassing personal development, empathy, and the cultivation of values like kindness and resilience that are essential for meaningful impact and lifelong learning in the field. This ethos is perfectly encapsulated by Next Biosciences' powerful mantra: "Nothing is inevitable. Anything is possible." It's a guiding principle that not only fuels their groundbreaking scientific work but also champions the limitless potential within each woman shaping the company's future.
"While I think about the future, my true focus is on translating every lesson learned into meaningful next steps. I am relentlessly open to growth, seizing every opportunity. The ultimate measure for me is knowing that, should today be my last at Next Biosciences, I gave it absolutely everything."- Naledi, Client Services Manager
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